Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability, took part in high-level discussions on water, sustainability, and future development during the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2026.

The UAE’s engagement at the Summit builds on momentum from the recent Dakar High-Level Preparatory Meeting held on 26–27 January 2026, which marked the formal assumption of roles by the Co-Chairs of the six interactive dialogues for the 2026 United Nations Water Conference. These efforts also support ongoing preparations for the Conference, which will be hosted in Abu Dhabi later this year.

During the Summit, Balalaa chaired a session titled “Mobilizing Global Leadership on Water Ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference,” hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The session focused on strengthening political leadership on water and advancing collective action ahead of the Conference.

The discussion brought together senior leaders and decision-makers, including Mutale Nalumango, Vice President of the Republic of Zambia; Cheikh Tidiane Dieye, Minister of Water and Sanitation of the Republic of Senegal; Li Junhua, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs; and Magín Javier Díaz, Minister of Finance of the Dominican Republic.

Participants emphasized the central role of water in sustainable development and prosperity, underscoring the need to accelerate implementation and impact in the lead-up to the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, which will be co-hosted by the UAE and the Republic of Senegal.

Commenting on the discussions, Balalaa said the World Governments Summit highlights how today’s decisions will shape future societies. He noted that water, alongside energy, food systems, and emerging technologies, lies at the core of sustainable development and long-term resilience.

He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ engagement reflects the UAE’s commitment to forging partnerships that turn shared ambition into tangible outcomes, as preparations continue for the 2026 UN Water Conference.

The Summit served as a platform for governments to exchange perspectives, test ideas, and strengthen collaboration amid rapid global change. The Ministry’s participation reflects the UAE’s continued efforts to remain actively engaged in global forums shaping the future.

On the sidelines of the Summit, Balalaa also held bilateral ministerial meetings with several heads of delegations to exchange views and advance cooperation.